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As parents prepare to send their kids back to school, concerns about their safety are understandably heightened. This year alone, the U.S. has witnessed 27 school shootings, raising valid anxieties among families. In the wake of such tragedies, many parents have turned to bulletproof backpacks as a means of protection. Sales surged by 300% before the 2019 school year, even before the devastating events at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.
But do these backpacks actually work in an active shooter scenario? Here’s what you need to know about their effectiveness and whether they should be on your shopping list.
What Exactly is a Bulletproof Backpack?
Bulletproof backpacks are designed with a back panel made from flexible ballistic materials that claim to stop bullets, shrapnel, and other projectiles. Many are rated according to standards set by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). Some companies also offer bulletproof inserts that can be added to existing bags. These items are readily available at major retailers like Office Depot and Dick’s Sporting Goods, with prices ranging from $99 to $560. This cost may be prohibitive for some families, especially when considering the options for older students and adults.
Are Bulletproof Backpacks Effective?
While these backpacks may provide a sense of security, most available products do not protect against the caliber of bullets used in many mass shooting incidents. The NIJ ranks ballistic protection on a scale from Level IIA to Level IV. Unfortunately, very few backpacks meet the higher standards necessary to defend against rifle ammunition, which is often used in mass shootings. Most bulletproof backpacks are rated at Level IIIA, which can stop handgun bullets but not the more powerful rounds fired from rifles.
Experts like Dr. Mark Thompson, a forensic scientist, assert that current commercially available products cannot withstand the higher velocity of rifle bullets. Additionally, practical concerns arise regarding children remembering to grab their backpacks during emergencies. Former teacher Lisa Ramirez noted that in chaotic situations, children may not have the clarity to use these backpacks effectively for protection.
Should You Buy a Bulletproof Backpack?
Ultimately, the choice to purchase a bulletproof backpack lies with individual parents. While they might offer some peace of mind, experts like school safety advisor Jason Lee argue that these products serve as a temporary fix, neglecting the deeper issue of school safety. Lee emphasizes that creating a safe environment within schools is the administration’s responsibility, and technology should be leveraged to enhance security measures.
Until more comprehensive gun control measures are enacted, parents will continue to navigate the complexities of their children’s safety in schools. Ensuring a secure learning environment should be a priority for lawmakers, who must take proactive steps to address gun violence in educational settings.
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Summary
In summary, while bulletproof backpacks may provide a sense of security for parents concerned about school shootings, they may not offer the level of protection that families hope for. Experts caution that these products often don’t meet the necessary standards to defend against the more powerful weapons used in many tragic incidents. Ultimately, creating a safer school environment must be a priority for educators and lawmakers alike.